SACRAMENTO — A new law going into effect on Sept. 16 will require a driver to allow three feet of distance when passing a bicyclist, or slowing to a safe speed and passing when no danger is present if a three-foot buffer is not possible, California Highway Patrol officials said.

CHP officers are reminding the public to be aware of bicyclists, especially children riding their bikes to and from school.

A CHP news release states data from the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System revealed there were 153 bicyclists killed in California in 2012, which reflects a 7 percent increase from 2011. Those deaths accounted for 5 percent of the total collision fatalities in California, according to CHP officials.

"As important as it is for vehicles to be mindful of our bicyclists, those who ride must exercise safe practices and ride smart," CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow said in the release. "With both drivers and bicyclists doing their part, we can help reduce the number of tragedies involving bicyclists."